Navy Federal Credit Union

Charles Hart graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1938. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Action Date:

    June 23, 1965 – June 30, 1968

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain Charles Samuel Hart (NSN: 0-81088), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services in multiple assignments while serving with the Staff, Commander Western Sea Frontier, from 23 June 1965 to 30 June 1968. An extremely competent and effective administrator, Captain Hart, while serving as Assistant Chief of Staff and Aide to Commander Western Sea Frontier, Inspector General and Chief of Staff and Aide to Commander Western Sea Frontier, made many significant contributions which have resulted in increased staff readiness, efficiency and morale. Through a series of staff studies initiated by him, improvements have been made in personnel management, staff internal security even with a reduction in watch standing requirements, and staff readiness through better and more equitable utilization of personnel during peak periods of operational activity. As Inspector General, he developed and compiled a most comprehensive command inspection manual for Fleet Air Control and Surveillance Facility, San Diego, a unique and only command of its type in the U.S. Navy. Captain Hart’s outstanding leadership, judgment and inspiring devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Watts (DD-567)

    Action Date:

    May 1945

    Commander Destroyers Pacific: Serial 024 (January 11, 1946)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Charles Samuel Hart (NSN: 0-81088), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. WATTS (DD-567), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Okinawa operation in 1945. Assigned to radar picket station duty for ten days during this period, Commander Hart skillfully fought his ship against many determined enemy air attacks and inflicted severe damage jupon the hostile forces. By his forceful leadership and professional skill, he succeeded in bringing his ship through a period of most hazardous duty without casualties or damage to material. His courageous devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.